More detailed descriptions can be found on the Ride Rating System page
Ride Coordinator: Smith Doss
Report by: Claude Monnier
This tour was a point to point trip with 2 days in Puglia (Alberobello and Castellana Grotte) then an area mostly in Calabria and a little bit of Basilicata in an area called Magna Grecia in Roman Times. We stayed 2 nights in Castellana Grotte, Matera, and Calabro Morano which allowed either a rest day or a loop ride. Our lodging alternated between hotels and agri-turismos (farm to table ins). Our location in Matera was very close to the old town which allowed us to book a guided walking tour before dinner. The same was true in Castellana, we were very close to the caves entrance.
Etna Bike Tours had planned the itinerary and rode the whole course as late as a few months before our tour, so they routed us to quiet roads, and avoided mudslides. When we encountered poor quality roads, they made us aware during daily briefings which kept us out of trouble.
The routes were arranged to explore many perched villages, experience maritime and mountainous environment and a few cultural sites (Alberobello, Metaponto, Miglionico Castle etc.) along the way. The surprise was how scenic the Pollino National Park is.
All in all, we found the riding scenic, challenging and on mostly quiet roads. Etna Bike Tours provided excellent support in scouting routes, making us aware of hazards, even water stops along the way (2 or 3 per day). They also made sure the meals and happy hour menus included local specialties of the area (who knew about fennel flower beignets, fried calabrese pizzas, tarallis and limoncello spritz?). They also had a guide with us on the road which proved useful when some folks made a wrong turn.
Given the climbing and technical descents, this trip is not for beginners and does require some level of technicity on the bike.
Bicycle Adventure Club
PO BOX 23998 San Diego, CA 92193
Telephone (858) 715-9510 office@bicycleadventureclub.org